Asked then if he has discussed his future with the NBA’s Board of Governors, Stern said, “I haven’t told them anything. I’ve told (the media) more,” adding that he will have that talk with the board “very soon.”

Stern also endorsed deputy commissioner Adam Silver as his successor.

“I guess what I would say is, one of the things that a good CEO does—and I try to be a good CEO—is provide his board with a spectacular choice for his successor,” Stern said. “I have done that, and that’s Adam. If I had the decision, if I were doing it myself, he would be the commissioner. But as I have said before, the board will make that decision.”

The board would ultimately decide on Stern's replacement, though the Daily News reported that Silver is seen as a lock and has the support of almost 90 percent of the owners.